Cat breed · Mixed ancestry

Domestic Longhair

A non-pedigree cat with a long coat — common in shelters and needing more grooming than a shorthair.

Medium13–18 yearsWorldwideCan suit apartments

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Breed characteristics

Long coats arose naturally in colder regions and spread through free-breeding cat populations.

Plush coat with a ruff and feathered tail, in every colour.

Daily interactive play and climbing opportunities.

Brush three or four times weekly to prevent mats behind the ears, in the armpits and along the trousers.

Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
Check your routine can support the activity described here: Daily interactive play and climbing opportunities. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hairballs, Matting-related skin problems, Dental disease, Obesity, Kidney disease with age), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.

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